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The Near Witch.

Schwab, Victoria (author).

Long, long ago, the Near Witch lived in a small house on the farthest edge of the village, and she used to sing the hills to sleep. The residents of Near passed down this legend through the decades until it became nothing more than a traditional childrens’ rhyme. Lexi seeks the truth behind the legend when the village children begin to disappear, and her questions escalate after meeting Cole, a mysterious stranger to whom she is inexplicably drawn. Schwab’s debut, a story of forbidden love, ancient magic, and unearthed secrets, surpasses the stereotypical teen witch novel through rich language and an entrancing story. With its bleak, Brontë-like setting and its relatable and realistic young couple, this will have immediate appeal. Word of advice: allot enough time to read this in one sitting.